The ninth Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) is leveraging its “Resonance” theme and ASEAN Records recognition to establish a permanent hub for Southeast Asian cinema. According to founder and president Joanne Goh, the festival focuses on creating lasting cultural connections and celebrating regional stories through its ASEAN On Screen platform and Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA).
ASEAN On Screen: Scaling Regional Cinema Distribution
The integration of the ASEAN On Screen platform into MIFFest marks a shift toward institutionalizing Southeast Asian film exchange. Launched in 2025 during Malaysia’s ASEAN chairship, the program is now a permanent fixture of the festival, according to Joanne Goh.
By providing a dedicated platform for “diverse voices,” MIFFest aims to move beyond sporadic screenings toward a sustainable ecosystem where filmmakers from across the bloc can reach international audiences. This strategy aligns with the support of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and the Ministry of Communications, both of which were represented at the opening ceremony via CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib and Deputy Secretary General Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil.
Did you know? MIFFest recently received official recognition from ASEAN Records, specifically honoring the ASEAN On Screen platform and the Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA) for their role in promoting Southeast Asian cinema.
The “Resonance” Model and Narrative Trends
The 2026 festival theme, “Resonance,” signals a move toward cinema that prioritizes emotional longevity and cross-cultural conversation over mere spectacle. Joanne Goh described resonance as “the lasting echo of a story” and the connections created across borders and generations.
This trend is evident in the selection of the opening film, Baga: Tomorrow Belongs To No One. Directed by Ariff Zulkarnain, the film explores poverty, addiction, and unplanned pregnancy within a devout fishing community on Malaysia’s East Coast.
Global Partnerships and Cultural Diplomacy
MIFFest is expanding its footprint through strategic international partnerships that go beyond the ASEAN region. A primary example is the Russian Film Week, presented in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, Roskino, and Mosfilm.
Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, chair of Tourism Malaysia, explicitly reaffirmed the festival’s role in strengthening Malaysia’s creative industry and diplomatic ties during his address at the opening ceremony.
Pro Tip: For filmmakers looking to enter the Southeast Asian market, keep an eye on the Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA). As a recognized hub by ASEAN Records, it serves as a critical gateway for visibility in the region.
Comparing Regional and International Programming
MIFFest balances high-profile industry recognition with grassroots accessibility. While the red carpet featured stars like Bront Palarae, Daiyan Trisha, and Jack Tan, the programming remains accessible through initiatives like the Open Air Cinema and free Russian screenings.
| Program Strand | Focus Area | Key Objective |
|---|---|---|
| ASEAN On Screen | Southeast Asia | Regional discovery & sharing |
| Russian Film Week | Eurasia | Cultural diplomacy/free access |
| Indian/HK Cinema | Asia-Pacific | Exploring cinematic evolution |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme of the current MIFFest?
The theme is “Resonance,” which focuses on the lasting emotional impact of stories and the connections cinema creates across cultures.
What is ASEAN On Screen?
It is a permanent annual program at MIFFest, launched during Malaysia’s ASEAN chairship in 2025, designed to celebrate and share Southeast Asian stories with the world.
Who is the founder of MIFFest?
Joanne Goh serves as the founder and president of the Malaysia International Film Festival.
Want to stay updated on the evolution of Southeast Asian cinema?
Share your thoughts on the “Resonance” theme in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights.
Related reading